The Artist - UK (2021-02)

58 artistFebruary 2021 http://www.painters-online.co.uk

WATERCOLOUR

p STAGE TWO

The lights began to go on, leaving bare areas that were to remain

white. In this view there is a distinct fore- mid- and background

and the subject is a mix of landscape and marine elements.

Autumn colours were evident and a clear light direction had to be

maintained to give form to the boats

p STAGE THREE

The painting was pieced together using darker, stronger shades to give

form, or by painting around the shapes I wanted to define

u STAGE FOUR

The water was added, the shapes of the

lighter reflections and boats; other features

were painted around

NICHOLAS’ TIPS FOR

PAINTING

l I f in any doubt, do not tinker while

the paint is wet. Let it dry and then

start working from light to dark on

any unresolved areas.

l If you find areas of paint are lacking

the desired intensity, try using a

stronger mix and a slightly smaller

brush. Conversely, if areas are too

intense and fussy, try using a larger

brush.

l To create a design and organise the

painting use areas of flat wash.

u STAGE ONE
The simplification and understanding begins with the drawing. Once
we have found an unobstructed view of our subject we must decide
what elements to include. I try to decide in terms of areas of paint,
and drawing can help us define these and provides the underpinning
structure to the painting. I draw what I need and don’t worry about
detail. In this instance I needed to draw in the shapes of the lights I
needed to preserve right at the start. The sky was put in as a descending
graduated wash of French ultramarine – I mixed in more and more
water as the wash descended until there was no colour